P.A.W.S. Pet Advocates Working in Sarasota Presented by Danielle Hughes, Child Protection Center, Inc. And Special Guests

History of P.AW.S. Owner of a certified (now retired) Pet Therapy Dog Harley Duke

History Continued… National Child Protection Training Center (NCPTC). “A Children's Courtroom Bill of Rights: Seven Pre-Trial Motions Prosecutors Should Routinely File in Cases of Child Maltreatment" (November 2008).” TASK Manual In 2009, FL Statute Passed. Judicial or other proceedings involving victim or witness under the age of 16 or person with mental retardation; special protections; use of registered service or therapy animals.

Child Protection Center, Inc. We have two sets of animal advocates; Greeting children and families at the Child Protection Center…SATP Group Nights 12 th Judicial Circuit State Attorney Offices Pre-filing interviews (PFI) Deposition Pre and Post testimony Witness stand with victim P.A.W.S. Video…

Considerations… CPC does not have animals full time at the Center Allergies Fear of Animals Aggressive or Aversion to Animals No One is Forced to Interact with the Animal Handler and Animal is not to be left alone with a child State Attorney discusses the program first with the families and then the families will consent to participate in the Program.

Qualifications for Handlers and Pups Certified through a recognized pet therapy program. Background Checks Level 1 and 2 TRAINING, TRAINING, TRAINING… mandatory reporting/child sexual abuse Meeting with the State Attorney’s Office

“PAW”traits